Welded Connections in Aluminium Alloy Structures

摘要

Although a lot of research on aluminium alloys has been carried out in the past, relatively little attention has been given to their structural behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the structural behavior of aluminium alloy members and in particular the deformation capacity, in order to realize full application of limit state design methods. It was decided to investigate welded connections in statically loaded aluminium alloy structures for that reason as well as some other reasons which are listed below: Welded connections are well suited for studying the relationship between mechanical properties and structural behavior, since stress and strain concentrations occur. Design rules based on ultimate limit states, are concerned with failure of the structure. In spite of many investigations carried out, characteristic strength values of weld metal and heat-affected zone, respectively, do not exist. There are no uniform design rules for butt welds, fillet welds and welded connections in aluminium alloys. The use of rules similar to those for steel has to be investigated. Connections form an important part of the cost of structures as beam-column and truss-joints. Therefore simple, unstiffened connections are preferred. However, this means that stress and strain concentrations are introduced which have to be studied in relation to the strength, stiffness and deformation capacity of the joint.